Overview
This is the shepherd's dog of the Lessinia plateau and the Lagorai range in north-east Italy, used to move cattle and sheep between valley and high pasture. It is a rustic, medium to large dog with a weather-resistant coat that is often merle, blue or brindled, and it has only recently been given a formal standard in Italy.
Because it is a working landrace, temperament varies with the line and the upbringing. The common thread is a dog with real herding drive, a strong bond with its handler and a certain reserve with strangers. Any example in the UK is a rarity with an owner who can tell you more than any book.
Exercise and walking needs
Plan on ninety minutes of movement a day for a dog bred to work all day on mountain pastures. A long trot through varied terrain with some problem-solving will suit it better than a flat park.
The coat handles rain, cold and snow without complaint. Warm weather is less familiar, so adjust pace and carry water in summer.
On the walk
- Recall: A herder trained to a handler usually comes back, but a strange handler is another matter. Use a long line until the dog clearly treats you as its person for the hour.
- Herding: Cattle dogs grip and drive. Watch for heel nipping with other dogs and joggers, and move the dog on before it starts working the group.
- Other dogs: Often indifferent to dogs that mind their own business and sharp with those that do not. Introduce carefully and avoid crowded parks early on.
- Strangers: Reserved by nature. Let the dog decide when to approach, and do not let members of the public lean over it.
Tips for professional walkers
- Ask the owner to walk with you for the first few sessions so the dog learns to take direction from you.
- Keep livestock at a distance; the urge to work them is strong and the law on sheep worrying is unforgiving.
- Give the dog a task on the walk, such as a search or a carry, to use the working brain.
What to ask the owner
- Was the dog bred from working stock, and has it ever worked cattle or sheep?
- How does it behave with strangers on the street and with other dogs?
- What commands does it know, and in which language?